Research
I have a strong interest in the ways in which spaces and places embody and address inequality. My research to date has primarily focused on investigating the socio-spatial context which influences both the structure of the urban environment and subsequent health outcomes. Through my research, I aim to improve social justice and population health through new understanding of the impacts of the built and natural environment. Have a look at some of my projects below.
Green AWARE
Everyone should have access to greenspace, to meet social, recreational, and health needs, but some groups face additional challenges to visiting their local spaces, particularly those in less affluent areas, ethnic minorities, and women; this is because different people need different things from their local greenspaces. Working with Leeds and Bradford councils and local community groups, this project combines a large survey with community focus groups, map data, and geospatial analysis, to understand and improve access to greenspace in West Yorkshire. This research is funded by the ESRC's New Investigator scheme, and you can find out moure about the project here.
Nature and wellbeing
My core research interest is how to bring nature into cities to improve wellbeing. I have worked with national surveys, social media data, smart sensors, and maps to explore where, when, and how natural environments can be most beneficial. I have recently been exploring how access to natural spaces and private gardens may have been protective of mental health during Covid-19 lockdowns.
Healthy urban places
With rapid urbanisation, accommodating increasing numbers of residents in a restricted amount of space presents unprecedented challenges, as we realise that where people live, work, and spend time really does make a difference. Certain places have healthier and more prosperous populations than others, due to complex relationships between people and the physical, social, and contextual places they inhabit. I'm collaborating on a UKRI-funded project with several institutions in London and the North of England to define what really makes our cities healthy.
Peripheralisation and inequality
Certain places and communities are at greater risk of become becoming peripheralised, or 'left behind' in terms of economic and social affluence. I explore how structural inequalities can exacerbate and prolong disadvantage across places and time.
